Price returns after more than a year out, last seen pointing out Natasha Jonas.
“Defending my world titles at home in Wales means everything to me,” said Price. “I want to repay the support everyone has shown me with another great performance. I never turn down a challenge. Stephanie Pineiro Aquino is a dangerous fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from raising my hand on April 4 in Cardiff.”
Aquino comes in undefeated and holds interim status with the WBA, which puts her in this position. She brings pressure, straight shots, and a willingness to push exchanges early.
“Lauren may have the home fans on her side, but I also have a country behind me,” Pineiro Aquino said. “I’m coming to take those belts back to Puerto Rico.”
Aquino will try to close distance and force a higher pace. Price will look to keep the fight on her terms, using her jab to establish distance, and stepping in with straight right and left hooks when openings show.
The difference comes in control. Price does not rush her work. She picks shots, resets her feet and keeps her balance when the exchanges open up. This allows her to flow her offense deep into battle.
Aquino must disrupt it. If she can back up Price, work the body and force longer exchanges, she gives herself a route. If she stays on the end of Price’s jab, she gets worked out round by round.
Mikaela Mayer holds the WBO belt, and that fight was handled next as Price matters. Other names are mentioned, but the undisputed fight is the one that fits the division.
Price has the belts and the structure. Aquino has the mandatory position and the pressure game.
You can watch the Price v Pineiro fight night from 6pm on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website, with BBC Two coverage starting at 8pm. The battle will be too live on DAZN.
